WASHINGTON — Like so many Irish writers, Samuel Beckett’s plays offer bleak yet moving portraits of the human condition. In “Krapp’s Last Tape,” a brooding man looks back at his life on his 69th birthday and shudders at what he finds.
Pouring through old tapes recorded in earlier years, Krapp learns that his 39-year-old self knew nothing about the world. While his mature self revels in simple things like the feel of a banana or the decadent sound of the word “spool,” the younger man on tape is all too ready to say “farewell to love.”
Oscar nominated actor John Hurt breathes life into the grim man on stage, relying on the subtleties of his face to recreate a lifetime of memories. Clocking in at just 55 minutes, the one-act Irish production hangs heavy in the air well past the final bow.
“Krapps’s Last Tape” runs through Sunday at the Lansburgh Theatre. Tickets start at $85 and can be purchased online or by calling 202-547-1122.
Children take over the stage in the Twin Beach Players’ production of “A Christmas Carol.” The young cast — 6 to 18 years old — will perform the Charles Dickens classic this weekend and next, and even manage to work in a Toys for Tots drive into the play. Ticket are $10 to $12. Call 410-474-4214 for more information.
For a different twist on the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, check out Matthew Keenan’s “An Irish Carol” at the Keegan Theatre in Arlington. Loosely based on “A Christmas Carol,” this modern fable is set in a Dublin pub and follows the life of its wealthy owner, who has lost touch with his humanity after attaining financial success. The show runs through Dec. 31. Tickets are $30 to $35 and can be purchased online or by calling 703-892-0202.
If you’re not feeling in the theater spirit, head to the Strathmore Music Center on Sunday for a winter concert featuring Bach, Mozart, Verdi and more. The Maryland Classic Youth Orchestra will offer two variations: The 3 p.m. performance features the Chamber Strings, Young Artists and Symphony Orchestra, and the 7 p.m. show features the Levine Harp Ensemble plus the MCYO Chamber Orchestra and Philharmonic. Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for children under 18, seniors and music teachers. Buy online or call 301-581-5100.
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